Hard vs. Soft Window Treatments: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to window treatments, there are two main categories: hard and soft. Hard window treatments include blinds, shades, and shutters, while soft window treatments include curtains and drapes. Each type of treatment has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.

Hard Window Treatments

Hard window treatments are made from materials that are sturdy and durable, such as wood, metal, or vinyl. They are typically used to block out light and provide privacy, and they can be adjusted to control the amount of light that enters a room. Some common types of hard window treatments include:

  1. Blinds: Blinds are made from slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light that enters a room. They are available in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl.
  2. Shades: Shades are made from a single piece of material that can be raised or lowered to control the amount of light that enters a room. They are available in a variety of styles, including roller shades, cellular shades, and Roman shades.
  3. Shutters: Shutters are made from solid panels or slats that can be opened or closed to control the amount of light that enters a room. They are typically made from wood, but they are also available in vinyl and other materials.

Soft Window Treatments

Soft window treatments are made from fabrics that are lightweight and flexible, such as cotton, linen, or silk. They are typically used to add a decorative element to a room, but they can also be used to block out light and provide privacy. Some common types of soft window treatments include:

  1. Curtains: Curtains are made from lightweight fabrics that can be hung from a rod or track. They are available in a variety of styles and lengths, and they can be used to add color and texture to a room.
  2. Drapes: Drapes are similar to curtains, but they are made from heavier fabrics that are lined to block out light and provide insulation. They are typically used in formal settings, such as dining rooms or living rooms.

Both hard and soft window treatments have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision. Hard window treatments are ideal for those who want to control the amount of light that enters a room and provide excellent privacy, while soft window treatments are ideal for those who want to add a dash of creativity. 

The Top 3 Window Treatments for Young Children

As a parent or guardian, one of your top priorities is ensuring the safety and comfort of your young children. This extends to the design and decor of your home, including the window treatments you choose. Window treatments not only affect the aesthetics of your home, but they also serve practical purposes such as providing privacy, regulating light and temperature, and enhancing energy efficiency. When it comes to choosing window treatments for young children, safety is paramount, and there are several options that meet this criterion while also providing functionality and style. In this blog, we will discuss the three best window treatments for young children.

Cordless Cellular Shades

Corded window treatments such as blinds and shades pose a significant risk to young children. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, corded window coverings are one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes, causing hundreds of deaths and injuries each year. To eliminate this risk, cordless cellular shades are an excellent alternative. These shades are designed with a honeycomb-shaped structure that provides insulation and light filtration, and they can be operated by pulling them up and down with your hands. Cordless cellular shades come in a range of colors and styles, so you can choose one that matches your decor.

Window Film

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that doesn’t require cords or strings, window film is an excellent choice. Window film is a thin adhesive film that you can apply directly to your windows. It comes in a variety of patterns, colors, and designs, and it offers several benefits such as UV protection, privacy, and energy efficiency. Window film is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a great option for families with young children who are prone to making messes.

Motorized Roller Shades

Motorized roller shades are another great option for families with young children. These shades are operated with a remote control or a wall switch, eliminating the need for cords or strings. Motorized roller shades offer convenience and simplicity, as they can be opened and closed with the push of a button. They also provide excellent light control and privacy, and they come in a wide range of colors and fabrics to suit any decor.

So when it comes to choosing window treatments for young children, safety should be your top priority. Cordless cellular shades, window film, and motorized roller shades are three great options that offer safety, functionality, and style. By choosing one of these window treatments, you can ensure that your home is a safe and comfortable environment for your young children to grow and thrive in.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Window Treatments

Window treatments can add style and function to your home, but they do require some maintenance and cleaning to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips for maintaining and cleaning your window treatments.

Regular Dusting

One of the easiest things you can do to maintain your window treatments is to dust them regularly. Use a soft cloth or duster to gently remove any dust or debris from the surface of your treatments.

Vacuuming

If your window treatments are particularly dusty or dirty, you may want to use a vacuum to clean them. Use a soft brush attachment and be gentle to avoid damaging your treatments.

Spot Cleaning

If you have a spill or stain on your window treatments, you may be able to spot clean them with a gentle cleanser and a soft cloth. Be sure to test any cleansers in an inconspicuous area before using them on your entire treatment.

Professional Cleaning

For some window treatments, such as delicate fabrics or intricate designs, professional cleaning may be necessary. Contact a professional window treatment cleaning service to help you with the job.

By following these tips, you can help keep your window treatments looking their best for years to come. Regular maintenance and cleaning can also help extend the life of your treatments, which can save you money in the long run.

Reach out to the team at Nu View Custom Window Treatments for expert guidance. Our team is always ready to assist and answer any questions you may have. We’re here to make your window treatment journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

How to Style Window Treatments for Tall and Narrow Windows

Windows play a crucial role in any home, performing tasks such as lighting the space, providing a stunning view of the outside world, and improving the overall appearance of the room. Given their various shapes and dimensions, selecting the most suitable window treatment can be a challenge. You might be pondering over the most suitable curtains, blinds or shades to match your room, or how to keep the sun’s heat out in the summer. Fear not, as this article will guide you in finding the perfect window treatment for your tall, slender or wide windows. So, let’s take a closer look at some options.

The Best Options for Tall and Narrow Windows

Window treatments are an important aspect of home decor and can greatly impact the appearance and function of a room. With advancements in the industry, there are now several options for tall windows, each offering unique benefits and styles.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are a popular choice for tall windows due to their energy efficiency and modern aesthetic. The shades trap air in distinct pockets, creating an insulating layer at the window and reducing energy costs. They are available in single or double cells, with the double cells being more expensive but ideal for extreme temperatures. They can be used for large fixed windows and high ceiling windows as well.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are a suitable option for large fixed windows. They regulate room temperature, provide privacy, and block sunlight while also allowing for easy control. They come in various colors and can be installed to a curtain rod, making them simple to use.

Horizontal Sheers

Horizontal sheer shades are a unique combination of drapes and blinds, offering the best of both worlds. They allow sunlight into the room while also allowing for privacy control through the use of vanes. They are a good option for high ceiling windows and large fixed windows.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are a hassle-free option for high ceiling windows, providing a simple solution for controlling the amount of light entering the room. The louvers can be set at a particular angle, making it easy to manage the amount of sunlight that enters.

Drapes

Finally, drapery is a classic option for tall narrow windows that provides a regal and dramatic look. When shopping for drapery, it’s important to consider the scale of the room and choose larger pleats to achieve the desired grand effect. Adding valances and tiebacks can add a touch of class.

Navigating the world of window treatments for tall, slender windows can be a challenge, but you don’t have to go it alone. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive list of options for you to choose from. If you’re still uncertain about which option is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert guidance. Our team at Nu View Custom Window Treatments is always ready to assist and answer any questions you may have. We’re here to make your window treatment journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, take a deep breath, and let us help you find the perfect solution!

What Are the Right Kind of Kitchen Window Treatments for Your Home?

Kitchens are the center of activity for many homes and require style, comfortability, and functionality to make it a desirable space. To create an inviting atmosphere as well as optimize interior design in your kitchen, adding window treatments is key! With fashionable yet practical window coverings you will be able to transform your kitchen into an enjoyable place right away.

Sprucing up your kitchen can be a breeze when you choose the perfect window treatments to complement its distinct style. To assist you in this journey, we’ll go over all the details of picking out an ideal kitchen window treatment.

Things to Consider

When selecting kitchen window treatments, practicality is key. Kitchens contain a balance of moisture, grease, heat and aromas that can affect any window coverings you choose. However with thoughtful consideration and planning on your part, you’ll surely find the ideal curtains or blinds to endure all types of culinary creations!

5 Best Window Treatments for Your Kitchen

Cellular Shades

If you are searching for the perfect window shades to use in your kitchen, cellular shades should be at the top of your list. They have a unique honeycomb-shaped construction that adds extra insulation and provides superior control over light while also increasing energy efficiency and comfort. Just like their name suggests, they come as both single cell and double cell varieties – all specifically designed to meet different requirements!

Modern Roman Shades

For a perfect blend of timeless elegance and contemporary style, Roman shades are the ideal addition to any window. Whether you’re looking for a splash of colour or adding flair to your kitchen windows, they offer an effortless way to upgrade your space with minimal upkeep – no creases or wrinkles in sight!

Sheer Shades

Sheer shades are an ideal way to bring a soft atmosphere and modern detail into your kitchen. These window treatments let in just the right amount of sunlight, making for a comfortable ambiance in your home. When opened up, the sheer fabric filters light from outside that casts off elegant shimmering within. To get maximum effect out of these beautiful shades, we recommend pairing them with other varieties of drapery!

Woven Wood Shades

Create a rustic and appealing look in your kitchen by adding delightful wrought wood shades to your windows. Expertly crafted from natural materials such as bamboo, reeds, and grasses — these window treatments are both sturdy and stylish – built to last you for years! Not only do they create the perfect ambiance with their inviting aesthetic but also provide just the right amount of softness that any room’s interior requires.

Faux Wood Blinds and Shutters

If your windows are in the kitchen, look no further than synthetic materials for window coverings. Faux wood blinds offer an elegant aesthetic and have been designed to withstand fading, warping from heat or humidity, or bowing due to steamy conditions. Maintenance is a breeze as faux wood blinds can easily be wiped clean!

At Nu-View Custom Window Treatments, we’ll help you find the right kind of valances for your windows. We offer a wide selection of window treatments to choose from and also offer customization to meet your specific requirements. Contact us today for your free consultation!

Best Types of Window Treatments for Your Home Theater

Homeowners who want to install home movie theaters should consider window coverings. They darken the room, making it feel more like an authentic theater, and help set the mood for your viewing experience by blocking out unnecessary light.

With so many window covering options on the market, it’s important to do your research to decide what will look best in your home theater. The first step is understanding exactly what you want from a window treatment in order to achieve desired results. Luckily, our team can help pick the best room darkening blinds for your home theater!

Popular Types of Home Theater Window Coverings

Blackout blinds are the best window coverings for creating a dark home theater, as they prevent any light from passing through. Alternatively, you can mix and match blackout blinds with other types of window treatments to achieve your desired look.

Wood Blinds

Wood blinds with wider vanes not only block light better, but you can also control how dark or light your home theater is by adjusting them. They’re easy to operate and come in many colors and finishes to match any decor.

Blackout Roller Shades

Out of all the window treatments available, blackout roller shades or blinds are the best for your home theater. They take up less space than other treatments, they’re easy to clean, and you can get them in a motorized version that will give your personal movie theater a cutting-edge vibe.

Sound Dampening Curtains for Your Home Theatre

Sound dampening curtains aren’t only good for reducing noise from outside- they can also block light and be used in combination with other window treatments. This makes them ideal for setting up a home theater, where you want to create an optimal viewing experience free of any external distractions.

Blackout Roman Shades

Roman shades are an elegant window covering that can be used to blackout light. They fit snugly inside your window frame and can be made with material that coordinates with your draperies, making them a flawless complement to your interior design.

Blackout Cellular Shades

Not only do blackout cellular shades stop light from entering your room, they also reduce noise and prevent drafts. Their honeycomb structure improves the insulation of your rooms and helps you save money on energy costs. Plus, there are four different levels of light control to choose from!

There are many things to consider when creating the perfect home movie theater, but one of the most important is choosing the right window coverings. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which type is best for your needs. However, cellular shades are always a great choice because they provide light blackout and insulation due to their air pockets – not to mention saving energy in the process!

The Nu-View Custom Window Treatments team can help you find the best window treatments for your home movie theater. Contact us today for more information about the different custom blinds and shades we offer!

5 Tips for Installing Window Treatments in Your Kid’s Bedroom

Keeping your children safe is always a top priority as a parent, but it can be especially difficult in their bedroom where they play and spend most of their time unsupervised. You must take care to ensure that their living space is free from hazards so that they can stay safe while you’re not around.

Many window coverings have components that can be dangerous for unattended children. This is why it’s important to choose window coverings carefully if you have kids in your home. In this article, we’ll share some useful tips for choosing kid-friendly window coverings.

Kids Bedroom Window Covering Tips

Not sure how to purchase window treatments for your child’s bedroom? We can help. Here are some key questions and tips that you should consider before purchasing the perfect curtains or blinds for your kid’s space.

Consider How Safe Your Kids Bedroom Window Coverings Are

When you are designing your child’s bedroom, safety is of the utmost importance. The best window treatment option for a safe environment would be cordless blinds. Cordless blinds are ideal for children who are learning to walk because they will grab onto anything nearby for support. If you install cordless blinds, there is little to no chance that kids will grab the cords and pull the entire blind down on top of them.

Consider Your Kid’s Age

A great way to achieve a stimulating environment for your young children is by adding colorful blinds to their bedroom windows. You should look for patterns and colors that stand out, and try to match the overall theme of the room. This can help tie the entire room together while also providing an enjoyable experience for your kids.

Consider The Texture of the Kids Bedrooms Window Treatments

As a general rule, kids do not enjoy complicated textures– things like you might find in your child’s living room blinds. If you want to create an attractive environment for your child, go with softer, flowy textures instead. Drapery is always a good choice if you are going for that aesthetic. You can also keep brightly colored drapery as an option for bedroom window treatments in your kid’s room.

Consider The Amount Of Light Control of The Kids Bedroom Window Covering

Kids need a good deal of continual sleep, including naps during the daytime. When you’re searching for window treatments for your kid’s bedroom, make sure to select coverings that effectively block light. By doing so, you can ensure that your child can sleep in darkness whenever they need to.

Consider the Convenience of The Bedroom Window Coverings

When children are present, it seems as if every surface in their bedroom is under threat of being stained or dirtied. To make your life easier, you should consider window treatments that are easy to clean. Some blinds have pockets of dust that accumulate over time and become difficult to clear; these types of blinds should be avoided for a child’s bedroom. Roman shades might be a better option for kids’ bedrooms because they’re made from soft fabric that can easily be removed and laundered.

While picking the ideal bedroom window treatments, a few things are more primary than others to think about. But if you’re still undecided about your choices, don’t worry! Our experts will gladly help you out further.

Increase Your Home’s Value with Window Treatments

When it comes to renovating or altering the inside of your house, window treatments are typically neglected. Window coverings, on the other hand, may improve the value of your property right now. You don’t have to spend a lot of money in order to make your home more appealing. Adding or changing window coverings might refresh a space while also increasing its value.

How do window treatments increase value?

When it comes to selling or moving out, the pressure of making your property seem better is intense. It would be simpler and add to the value of your home if you redecorated it. However, all of these treatments might be expensive. Window coverings are a solution if you are trying to save money while also increasing the value of your property.

Blinds

Are you considering putting your house on the market? Blinds can be a smart window treatment investment that will raise the value of your home. Blinds are one of the most common contemporary window coverings, since they come in a variety of colors and materials. They block out light while also providing seclusion.

Plantation Shutters

Adding plantation shutters to your windows can significantly boost the value of your home. They are generally custom-made for your property and may help to make it look nicer. Blinds, as well as other window coverings, are less durable than they appear.

Motorized Window Treatments

Motorized shades are a great answer for today’s window coverings. Motorized drapes allow you to adjust your covering with the press of a button. Do you want some sun but don’t want to get out of bed? You may now fully enjoy the sunshine while remaining inside your bed with motorized window treatments.

The Nu-View Custom Window Treatments team can help you find the best window treatments for your rental property. Contact us today for more information about the different custom blinds and shades we offer!

Top 3 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Skylight Window Treatments

Skylights are a wonderful feature for any home. They provide natural light and can make your space appear larger. They can be installed in almost every room of the house, from bathrooms to bedrooms to sitting rooms.

Whatever room you have a skylight in, you should avoid using a shade that stands out from the rest of the space. You may ensure this does not happen by getting custom skylight shades that are tailored to your specific requirements. Here are some things to think about before investing in bespoke skylight window shades:

Controlling the Amount of Light

If your skylight is in a bedroom, you may want shades that block out a significant amount of light so you can sleep comfortably. However, if it’s in the kitchen, you’ll need blinds that allow for soft diffused light to enter. Blackout skylight blinds are an excellent choice for optimal light-blocking.

Temperature Control

In the summer, skylight windows usually raise the temperature in your room since they provide poor insulation. As a result, your air conditioners must work harder and faster to cool down the space. This results in higher electricity costs. Insulating skylight shades may be installed to prevent this.

Protection Against UV Rays

If your skylight is in a bedroom or an office, you’ll be spending a significant amount of time under it. To ensure that you can enjoy being beneath it and profit from the benefits of natural light, get UV ray-blocking shades to prevent the harmful components of the sun’s rays from entering your room and harming your skin.

There are several different methods to personalize your skylight window shades, and the choices are virtually endless. With Nu-View Custom Window Treatments, we’ll help you find the right kind of treatments for your windows or doors. We offer a wide selection of options to choose from and also offer customization to meet your specific requirements. Contact us today for your free consultation!

Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows

Bay windows are three windows that have been combined to create a bigger window projecting outward from the property at specific angles. These windows are popular for adding aesthetic appeal to your property. A classic window treatment can enhance your bay windows even more! Here are 5 types of window treatments for your bay windows:

Bay Window Curtains

On your bay window, you can’t go wrong with curtains. They provide a nice touch to any space and give your windows a unique look. They not only look fantastic, but they also aid in the prevention of heat gain while also enhancing privacy. You may effectively use curtains to decorate and cover your huge bay window if it is wide enough.

Bay Window Shutters

Shutters are not often associated with bay windows in the mind of most homeowners. Shutters are a fantastic and timeless window coverings option. Shutters can be customized to fit your bay window’s shape and size. They’re ideal for adding that touch of class to your bay window, making shutters an excellent choice as a window treatment.

Bay Window Vertical Blinds

If you prioritize privacy, you should consider vertical blinds for bay windows in your living room and bedroom. In a space, these curtains provide a decent balance of privacy while also allowing for precise control of light. On every kind of window, they look great, and they never go out of style.

Bay Window Roman Blinds

Roman blinds are a safe choice for any bay window. These blinds have a timeless look and are easy to put up and take down. When lowered, they have a basic appearance and form gentle folds. Roman blinds are popular among bay window homeowners since they’re simple to install and highly functional.

Bay Window Roller Blinds

Roller blinds are also a fantastic way to decorate your bay windows. Roller blinds are made out of a single piece of fabric that rolls up on top of your bay windows. Because they’re easy and don’t take up much room, roller blinds are ideal for bay windows. Roller blinds may be operated in a variety of ways depending on the type used. You may choose between traditional corded lift mechanisms or motorized roller blinds for your bay windows.

There are a variety of choices available to you. If you’re still undecided on how to cover your bay windows, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We at Nu View Window Treatments are pros that can assist you in selecting the finest window treatments for your bay windows.